Forest Bathing Finds Roots In India As Urban Burnout Drives Nature Escapes

Image Source : NPR

A growing number of urban professionals across India are embracing forest bathing, or shinrin-yoku, a Japanese wellness practice that involves immersing oneself in nature to reduce stress and restore mental balance. With rising burnout and digital fatigue, this slow, sensory experience is gaining traction as a therapeutic escape from city life.

Key Highlights Of The Trend

- Forest bathing is not exercise-focused but encourages mindful presence—walking slowly, breathing deeply, and engaging all five senses
- Studies show it lowers cortisol levels, reduces blood pressure, and boosts immune function through exposure to tree-released oils called phytoncides
- Unlike hiking, forest bathing emphasizes stillness and sensory awareness, helping participants reconnect with their surroundings

India’s Emerging Forest Bathing Destinations

- Coorg, Uttarakhand, and Kerala are becoming popular for curated forest bathing retreats
- Luxury resorts and wellness centers now offer guided sessions for professionals from Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Delhi
- The appeal lies in its simplicity—no gear, no training, just a willingness to pause and be present

Why Urban Professionals Are Turning To The Woods

- Constant notifications, meetings, and deadlines have led to rising anxiety and sleep disorders
- Forest bathing offers a low-cost, stigma-free alternative to conventional therapy
- It’s increasingly seen as a lifestyle shift rather than a passing wellness trend

Outlook

As mental health awareness grows, forest bathing is poised to become a mainstream wellness practice in India. With its blend of science-backed benefits and spiritual calm, it offers a much-needed antidote to the pressures of modern urban living.

Sources: OdishaTV, Bliss in Nature, EgoEase, Stanford Lifestyle Medicine.